U.S. expressed condolenses in relation to Taraz terrorist attack

The United States Mission to the OSCE expressed condolences to Kazakhstan in relation to terorrist attack in Taraz on November 12 when 7 people were killed, Tengrinews.kz reports. Ambassador Ian Kelly expressed condolences at the meeting of the Permanent Council in Vienna.

“On behalf of the government and people of the United States, I want to express our condolences to the people of Kazakhstan, especially to the families and friends of the seven people killed by a gunman on November 12 in Taraz,” Ian Kelly said.

"A spokesperson for the Government of Kazakhstan indicated the shooter in this incident was motivated by extremist ideology. As we noted in July in regard to incidents of extremist violence: “These attacks make all too clear that our citizens are still vulnerable to intolerance, xenophobia and terrorism. As an organization, we must redouble our efforts to combat these evils.” These words are regrettably as true today as they were earlier in the year,” the message states.

"The United States stands together with all countries who are engaged in our shared struggle to fight terror. Kazakhstan is an important and committed partner of the United States in countering terrorism. We value Kazakhstan’s support in international fora, and on a bilateral level, in which Kazakhstan provides extensive cooperation and critical assistance to U.S. counter-terrorism efforts in the region and globally. We negate extremism with tolerance and respect for human rights. We will continue to work with the Government of Kazakhstan to combat terrorism in all its forms and uphold our OSCE commitments to promote comprehensive human security,” the Ambassador said.

Terrorist attack hit Taraz on November 12. Kihadist Maksat Kariyev made several attacks on officers of law-enforcement authorities. He blew himself up during apprehension. 7 people fell victims of the attack, including 5 policemen. 3 officers were injured.